The National Mall in Washington, D.C. is home to memorials honoring veterans of World War I and II, Korea and Viet Nam. But there’s no monument honoring the sacrifices of our post 9/11 military veterans. Civilians are honored at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum at Ground Zero in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and at a memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, but not our military.

Now there’s an organized effort to build a memorial for those who served and continue serving in the Global War on Terror. According to the Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation website, the purpose of the monument is to honor all who have served since September 11, 2001, and to educate future generations about our nation’s longest war.

Legislation to authorize construction is moving slowly through Congress. Much of its progress is due to the efforts of former Rep. Ryan Zinke, Navy SEAL and now Interior Secretary; Rep. Mike Gallagher, a Marine who served two tours in Iraq; and Rep. Seth Moulton, a former Marine officer with four combat tours in Iraq.

No site or design has been selected because under federal law the project can’t move forward until 10 years after the conflict ends. With no end in sight, supporters are lobbying for a waiver to the 10-year rule so work can begin. It’s time we honor the nearly 7,000 U.S. troops killed and millions deployed in this war. Learn how you can help.

Important Note: June 27th is PTSD Awareness Day. Studies show that one in five veterans deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan have suffered from PTSD or major depression. If you know a veteran experiencing nightmares and flashbacks, having difficulty sleeping, or feeling detached or estranged, resources are available to help.